Coverage for tonight’s high-stakes NHL Eastern Conference Second Round matchup between the Montreal Canadiens and the Buffalo Sabres is officially underway on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+, according to Elliotte Friedman. The broadcast marks the start of a critical Game 1 at KeyBank Center, where both teams look to carry momentum from their first-round victories.
Per Friedman (who referenced the teams using his signature shorthand as "MOTEL" and "BUAO"), the series begins in what are expected to be "two loud buildings" as the Atlantic Division rivals meet in the postseason for the first time since 1998. The Sabres enter the series well-rested after dispatching the Boston Bruins in six games, while the Canadiens are coming off an emotional seven-game series win against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The goaltending battle will be a focal point, as Montreal is expected to lean on standout rookie Jakub Dobes, who posted a .923 save percentage in the opening round. Buffalo will counter with Alex Lyon, who led all postseason goaltenders with a .955 save percentage during the first round. Offensively, the Canadiens are led by Nick Suzuki and 50-goal scorer Cole Caufield, while Buffalo relies on the powerhouse duo of Tage Thompson and Rasmus Dahlin.
On the injury front, the Canadiens remain without forward Patrik Laine, though defenseman Noah Dobson is expected to be fully healthy for the start of the series. The Sabres could see a boost with the potential return of Sam Carrick, who took part in the optional morning skate. Fans can catch the full broadcast live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ as the puck drops on this second-round clash.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
